Intro

The first time I tried to recreate the Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Recipe at home, I was standing barefoot in my kitchen, garlic already sizzling in olive oil, when that unmistakable aroma hit me.

You know the one—bright lemon, warm butter, a hint of wine, and sweet shrimp just beginning to turn pink. It instantly transported me back to those cozy restaurant booths, twirling pasta while talking a little too loudly with friends.

As a female chef who loves translating restaurant classics into soulful home cooking, this dish became a personal mission. I wanted it to taste indulgent, comforting, and restaurant‑worthy—yet still doable on a weeknight.

This homemade Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi isn’t just a copycat; it’s a love letter to simple ingredients treated with care. It’s buttery without being heavy, garlicky without being sharp, and brightened by lemon in a way that makes every bite feel fresh.

If you’ve ever wanted an easy Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi recipe that feels both elegant and relaxed, pull up a chair—I’m cooking for you tonight.

What is Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Recipe?

At its heart, the classic Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi is a celebration of balance. Tender shrimp are quickly sautéed in olive oil and butter, then bathed in a light sauce made from garlic, white wine, lemon juice, and a touch of seasoning. The sauce isn’t thick or creamy—it’s glossy, aromatic, and meant to lightly coat pasta rather than smother it.

What makes this version special is how approachable it is. The flavors feel sophisticated, yet every ingredient is familiar. You taste the sweetness of the shrimp first, followed by the richness of butter, the brightness of lemon, and the gentle warmth of garlic. The pasta soaks up just enough sauce to become silky, while fresh herbs add a final pop of green freshness.

As a chef, I love how forgiving this recipe is. Shrimp cook quickly, the sauce comes together in minutes, and the whole dish rewards attention without demanding perfection. That’s why this Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Recipe has become one of my go‑to meals when I want to impress without stress.

Equipment List

You don’t need fancy tools—just a few kitchen staples:

Large skillet or sauté pan
Large pot for boiling pasta
Colander
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

These ingredients are designed to be friendly for recipe schema and easy grocery shopping.

1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 oz (225 g) angel hair pasta or linguine
3 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp unsalted butter
5 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio)
1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Optional Add‑Ins:

Extra lemon zest for brightness
A splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce
Sautéed mushrooms or spinach

Instructions

Step 1: Bring the Pasta Water to Life

Fill a large pot with water, season it generously with salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Cook the pasta until just al dente, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. The pasta should still have a gentle bite—it will finish in the sauce later.

Step 2: Season and Prep the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper. Dry shrimp sear better, giving you that delicate sweetness instead of a watery sauté.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter melts and starts to foam, add the garlic. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—your kitchen should smell incredible, not burnt.

Step 4: Sauté the Shrimp

Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 1–2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the pan and set aside. This keeps them juicy and tender.

Step 5: Create the Scampi Sauce

Pour the white wine into the skillet, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced. Add lemon juice, red pepper flakes if using, and the remaining butter. Stir until glossy and aromatic.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss gently to coat. Return the shrimp to the pan and cook for another minute, just until everything is warmed through.

Step 7: Finish with Freshness

Sprinkle with chopped parsley and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt, pepper, or lemon as needed. Serve immediately, with Parmesan on the side if you like.

Why This Recipe Works

One of my favorite things about this homemade Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi is how every ingredient has a purpose. Butter adds richness, olive oil keeps it light, lemon cuts through the fat, and wine adds depth without heaviness. It’s the kind of dish that tastes like more effort than it actually takes.

Chef’s Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi

Use fresh shrimp whenever possible for sweetness and texture.
Don’t overcook the shrimp—they should be tender, not rubbery.
Always taste before serving; lemon and salt make all the difference.
Serve immediately for the best texture and aroma.

Serving Suggestions

This classic Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi pairs beautifully with:

Warm garlic bread
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
Roasted asparagus or broccoli

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth.
Avoid microwaving too long, as shrimp can toughen.

FAQs

Can I make this without wine?
Yes! Substitute chicken or vegetable broth with a squeeze of extra lemon.

Is this an easy Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi recipe for beginners?
Absolutely. The steps are simple, and the cooking time is quick.

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

What pasta works best?
Angel hair is traditional, but linguine or spaghetti work well too.

Can I make it spicy?
Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.

Final Thoughts from My Kitchen

Cooking this Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Recipe always reminds me why I fell in love with food in the first place. It’s about sharing warmth, aroma, and a little indulgence with the people you care about. Whether you’re cooking for guests or just treating yourself, this dish delivers comfort and elegance in every forkful. From my kitchen to yours—enjoy every buttery, lemon‑kissed bite.